The San Antonio Spurs confirmed the report shortly after Charania broke the news. Popovich spoke to reporters following the announcement and said the move is "only fitting, after I served loyally for 19 years as Tim Duncan's assistant, that he returns the favor."

Will Hardy is also joining Popovich's coaching staff, according to the Spurs. hardy's been with the Silver & Black since he joined the team in 2013 as a video coordinator. He has previously coached the Spurs' 2017 Summer League team in Las Vegas.

Duncan and Hardy are joining a re-tooled coaching bench following the departures of Ime Udoka and Ettore Messina.

Becky Hammon remains on the Spurs' coaching staff, where she likely could be the top assistant under Popovich. If that happens, and Pop ever got kicked out of a game, Hammon would be the first woman to coach an NBA game. The Spurs haven't announced yet who will be the top assistant under Popovich for the 2019-20 season.

The report was well-timed - July 21 was the third anniversary of "Tim Duncan Day." Duncan retired after the 2015-2016 regular season. He retired as a 15-time All-Star and top-15 all-time scorer. His number 21 jersey was retired by the Spurs shortly after his retirement.